Mallika Dureja
Moscow, Russia, Andrey Rudenko, deputy foreign minister of Russia, stated, “Western sanctions against Russia have stimulated trade with India.”
In an interview with RIA Novosti, he stated, “India and Russia have accelerated the transition to national currency payments and the development of an independent transport and financial infrastructure.”
Notably, last year bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two nations received a strong impetus and reached nearly USD 30 billion.
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Rudenko added that both nations are accelerating the transition to settlements in national currencies and the joint development of an independent transport and financial infrastructure.
The Russian deputy foreign minister added, “I am optimistic that the upward trend will continue this year.”
Rudenko responded to Russia’s plan to increase oil exports to India by stating, “We will continue to export as much oil to India as it requires for its own energy security.” Russian energy companies expedite the fulfilment of all pertinent requests.”
It is noteworthy that India has not adhered to the “price ceiling” imposed by the West on Russian oil.
Rudenko stated that the contract price for the shipment of our fuel to Indian companies is determined by market forces, as it should be in a civilised economic community.
Regarding Russia plan to complete the delivery of S-400 missile systems to India, he stated, “As for the supply of military products to India, this work is proceeding according to schedule and will be completed within the contractually obligated time frame.”
In reference to the preparations for the annual summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he stated, “The leaders of our countries routinely discuss timely bilateral and international issues. Such a synchronisation of timepieces occurs in various formats and when the logic of the privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India compels it. Leaders do not need to demonstrate artificially the strength of Russian-Indian relations, which are founded on deep historical and cultural roots, mutual respect, and consideration of each other’s security interests.
